RI Bill Holds Fossil Fuel Companies Accountable for Environmental Damage: What You Need to Know

In March, Rhode Island State Senator Linda Ujifusa and State Representative Jennifer Boylan introduced the Climate Superfund Act. This bill aims to hold big fossil fuel companies responsible for the harm their emissions have done in the state.

The bill targets major fossil fuel companies—those that have emitted over a billion tons of greenhouse gases in the last 30 years. Each company would contribute based on the environmental damage they’ve caused, determined by a detailed analysis.

The funds raised will support various climate resiliency initiatives in Rhode Island. Possible projects include building seawalls for coastal protection, enhancing stormwater management systems, and expanding bike and pedestrian paths.

However, not everyone is on board with the proposal. Terrence Gray, who leads the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, expressed doubts about how feasible the bill is. In a letter to the House Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, he raised concerns about calculating each company’s share of the costs. He also mentioned potential legal issues, noting similar bills in Vermont and New York faced lawsuits.

Michael Giamio from the American Petroleum Institute criticized the act as being “bad public policy” and possibly “unconstitutional,” although he didn’t respond to requests for further comments.

On the advocacy front, Cassidy DiPaola from Fossil Free Media highlighted that high energy costs unfairly burden Rhode Islanders. Her organization supports the Make Polluters Pay movement, pushing for states to adopt similar climate initiatives.

Both Ujifusa and Boylan emphasized the urgent need for action in light of climate risks. Boylan noted that rising sea levels could significantly impact her community, while Ujifusa pointed out that Rhode Island’s economy and geography make it particularly vulnerable to climate challenges.

James Crowley, a senior lawyer with the Conservation Law Foundation, stressed the necessity of local efforts. He pointed out that Rhode Island is already experiencing the effects of climate change and that fossil fuel companies should help cover the costs of the damage they have caused.

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